Uvulopalato-pharyngoplasty
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What is Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty?
The goal of UPPP is to reduce the obstruction in the upper airway, which is a common cause of snoring and sleep apnea. Snoring and sleep apnea often occur when the muscles and tissues in the throat relax excessively during sleep, leading to a partial or complete blockage of the airway.
It’s important to note that while UPPP can be effective in certain cases, it may not be the appropriate treatment for everyone with sleep apnea. The decision to undergo UPPP is typically based on factors such as the severity and specific characteristics of the sleep disorder, as well as the individual’s overall health.
The Procedure
- Anesthesia:
- UPPP is typically performed under general anesthesia, meaning the patient is asleep and feels no pain during the surgery.
- Positioning:
- The patient is positioned on their back on the operating table.
- Exposure:
- The surgeon uses a mouth gag to keep the mouth open, providing access to the throat.
- Uvula and Soft Palate Removal/Reshaping:
- The uvula (the fleshy projection at the back of the throat) is often partially or entirely removed.
- The surgeon may trim or reshape the soft palate, which is the soft part of the roof of the mouth.
- Pharyngeal Tissue Removal/Reshaping:
- Excess tissue in the pharynx (throat) is removed or reshaped. This may include the removal of part of the posterior wall of the throat.
- Tonsillectomy (if necessary):
- In some cases, if the tonsils contribute to the obstruction, they may be partially or completely removed. This step is more common in individuals who still have their tonsils.
- Closure:
- After the necessary tissue removal or reshaping, the surgeon closes the incisions using dissolvable sutures.
- Recovery:
- The patient is monitored in the recovery area as the effects of anesthesia wear off.
- Pain management and postoperative care instructions are provided.
Treatment
As with any medical procedure, we will undergo a thorough evaluation of your symptoms and all possible underlying causes to determine the best treatment for you. The choice of treatment will depend on your specific circumstances, and alternative options may also be considered based on the diagnosis and severity of symptoms.
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